Danny Maciocia applauds new CFL rules

On Monday, the Canadian Football League (CFL) announced a series of major rule changes, which will be phased in starting next season.

Montreal Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia was quick to respond, welcoming these adjustments proposed by commissioner Stewart Johnston.

Among the notable changes are the repositioning of the goalposts behind the end zone, a revision of the field dimensions, and the abolition of singles in certain situations.

For Maciocia, these changes will not only improve player safety, but also make the game more attractive to fans.

“The goalposts didn't make sense. We saw too many collisions and even decisive plays cancelled. It's a change that should have been implemented a long time ago,” said the GM, citing as an example a missed touchdown pass due to a ball deflected by a post.

While generally welcoming the decisions, Maciocia remains cautious about the change to the 55-yard line, which could influence offensive strategy. However, he stresses that the basics of Canadiens football remain intact: three downs, twelve players and movement before the handoff.

An impact beyond the field

These adjustments could also have logistical repercussions, particularly at Percival-Molson Stadium, home of the Alouettes. As the field belongs to McGill University, discussions will be needed to adapt the facilities. The eventual replacement of the artificial turf would entail significant costs, and the question of who will assume these remains unresolved.

Maciocia concludes by pointing out that these changes are part of an evolutionary process in Canadian football. In his view, the CFL must adapt to remain competitive, even if this means thinking more broadly about university pitches and other levels of the game.

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